White Egg Yolks Are Real—But Should You Eat Them?

Eggs are often referred to as a near-perfect food. From sunny-side-up to a savory appetizer, they’re a versatile ingredient that can fit into any meal. But what happens if you crack open an egg and find a white yolk? We recently encountered a hard-boiled egg with a white center and it got us curious: what causes this, is it safe to eat, and what does it mean?

What's Inside an Egg?

An egg consists of three main parts: the outer shell, the egg white (albumen), and the yolk. The yolk, often considered the most flavorful part, makes up about 30% of the egg's total mass. Rich in vitamins, lipids, and protein, egg yolks are considered a nutrient-dense source of high-quality protein.

What Affects the Color of an Egg Yolk?

The color of an egg yolk is influenced by the pigments found in a chicken's diet. Hens raised in more natural, open environments, with varied diets, can lay eggs with yolks that vary in color. The pigments responsible for the yolk’s color are called xanthophylls, and when combined with provitamin A, they result in a rich orange hue.

When chickens are fed a diet that includes yellow corn or alfalfa meal, their eggs typically have medium-yellow yolks. For instance, Vital Farms proudly mentions on its website that it adds ingredients like paprika and marigold petals to its hens' feed, creating eggs with vibrant orange yolks. Some farmers even use red peppers to give the yolks a reddish tint.

A diet rich in vitamin A, but lacking provitamins or xanthophylls, such as one based on light-colored grains like wheat or barley, may result in almost colorless yolks.

Is It Safe to Eat a White Egg Yolk?

The good news is that white yolks are completely safe to eat.

"Even though they may not look like the usual yolks you're used to, they're still perfectly safe to eat," says Breana Killeen, the owner of Killeen Crossroads Farm and a passionate advocate for chicken farming.

While the color of an egg yolk doesn't affect its nutritional content, many people prefer the taste of darker yolks over lighter ones. However, this preference is subjective, so the best way to know is to try it for yourself with one of our simple and delicious egg recipes.